Three cheers for Volunteers! National Volunteer Week 2026

This National Volunteer Week, (NVW) (18-24 May) the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is calling on all Australians to give 3 Cheers for Volunteers and recognise the millions of volunteers across Australia who connect our communities through sport. From the city to the outback, and everywhere in between, volunteers are the heart of Australia’s sporting story and this year they're putting their stories on the map!

From 18 May you can visit the Volunteer Map, to find and nominate the sport volunteers over 18 years old who make a difference in your community and give them 3 Cheers today!

Here at Table Tennis Australia, we recognise the incredible contribution of volunteers throughout our sport, and we know that, simply, the sport would be unable to thrive without the tireless hours of volunteers from all over Australia. Whether it be coaching, administrative support, mentoring, or refereeing and umpiring, there are so many areas in which volunteers make an outstanding difference, and we want to celebrate some of those this National Volunteer Week. 

Marjorie Watson - Toowoomba Table Tennis Association (Table Tennis Queensland)

Marjorie is a long-standing member of the Toowoomba TTA. She is a social player & fills in fixtures when required, as well as opening up & running several highly successful weekly social days.

Marj was an active Committee member for many years until stepping down two years ago, but continues to support & champion the club. She also assists in hosting monthly coaching sessions with morning teas & set-up/pack down & equipment sales.

Marjorie helps wherever she can. She is an inspiration at her age to many of the community members, and her energy is truly amazing. Toowoomba TT see her as their 'table tennis mother'.

Tom Atkinson - Table Tennis Western Australia

For many years, Tom has been the quiet person behind so many of TTWA’s best memories and moments.

 

As TTWA’s resident photographer, he has captured far more than matches — he has captured emotions, friendships, milestones, and the spirit of our community.

 

From juniors playing their first event to athletes standing on podiums, Tom’s work has helped bring TTWA’s people and stories to life.

 

Volunteer contributions like this often happen quietly behind the scenes, but they leave a lasting impact on an entire sporting community.

 

We thank him for everything he has done for table tennis in WA. 

 

Bill Freeman - Table Tennis Victoria

 

We proudly celebrate Bill’s extraordinary contribution to table tennis across nearly six decades.

 

Since 1968, Bill has attended every Victorian Country Championships as both a dedicated competitor and passionate administrator, serving on committees for more than 40 years. As former chairman of the Championships, he introduced enduring initiatives including leading player medallions, winners’ shields, and the prestigious Bill Freeman Shield.

 

Beyond administration, Bill organised countless interstate tours, supported the growth of country players, and championed lifelong participation in the sport. His dedication, leadership, and passion for table tennis continue to leave a lasting impact on the Victorian table tennis community.

 

David Bernard - Brisbane Table Tennis Association (Table Tennis Queensland)

 

David has been the indispensable engine room of his club, volunteering a staggering number of hours across multiple, high-stakes roles.

 

He has performed every duty with unparalleled professionalism, reliability, and a deep commitment to the club and its members.

On top of acting as the clubs Tournament Director tournament and frequently volunteering as a Deputy Referee & Umpire at state tournaments, David plays a key role in managing the ongoing success of Brisbane’s fixtures which often includes thankless weekly work of processing and submitting all results to Ratings Central.

It is not an exaggeration to say that the club's core functions run as successfully as they do because of David's personal efforts. He has shown great leadership in his volunteer roles, setting a benchmark for excellence that benefits every single competing member.